Jun 26 Carbs: Friend or Foe? | Everything You Need to Know

Carbohydrates are a source of fuel, but they are often demonised. Fad diets lead people to believe that carbs are the enemy, where in fact they may be the reason why you do not see results. Diet is always an essential part of a fitness journey so ensuring your body gets the right nutrients to keep going is important.

This post will highlight why cutting out carbs could be doing more harm than good; and which ones you should be eating!

Three things you need to know about carbs.

What Are They ?

Carbohydrates are one of the three vital macronutrients that form part of our diets. They are broken down into three categories namely; starches, fibre and sugar. Once consumed, they are transformed into glucose and used for energy in the body. This is why it is important to consume carbs that are slow releasing as they keep hunger at bay.

How Do They Differ?

Not All Carbs Are Equal. When it comes to eating carbs, it is usually a struggle to decide between simple or complex carbs. Is there a big difference between the two?

Simple carbs are classified as carbs that break down quickly but contain little to no nutrients. Among these simple carbs are cakes, sweets and pastries. Fruits also form part of simple carbs and are advised to be eaten in moderation due to their sugar content.

Complex carbs, on the other hand, are slow digesting and break down a lot slower; meaning they keep you fuller for longer and a maintained energy source. Sweet potatoes, oats and whole grains like quinoa, lentils as well as whole grain pasta and bread.

How should I eat them?

It’s all about having everything in moderation, too much of anything is not good for you. If you have a balance of proteins, wholesome carbohydrates, occasional cheats and you are well hydrated; you will get closer to your goals sooner than you think. Meal Prepping is an excellent way to gauge your eating habits – read how to here → http://www.enislab.com/2017/01/08/meal-prep/.

Overeating, even if healthy is an easy way to gain weight without realising. It is essential to eat only as much as your body requires and not any more. Swap simple carbs for healthier alternatives in between meals to keep you from being hungry. Carbs no longer need to be the enemy if you use them well!.